Caulfield Guineas: The Autumn Sun records devastating victory

The Autumn Sun left his rivals - and JMac - standingImage: Getty Images

The Autumn Sun has delivered a simply breathtaking performance in the G1 Caulfield Guineas (1600m), exploding away from his rivals to win by a huge space.Backed from $1.95 into $1.75, the Waller-trained colt jumped well from barrier five but was caught three-wide without cover in the early stages.

Jockey James McDonald was happy to face the breeze though, travelling on the outside of Tavisan and second-favourite Native Soldier in the first three.

Despite covering additional ground, The Autumn Sun ambled up to Native Soldier at the top of the straight and dropped him in a matter of strides.

With a furlong to run, he was two lengths clear and getting further and further away - dashing clear of 100-1 outsider Vassilator to salute by 4.5L.

The Autumn Sun firmed from $26 into $13 for the Cox Plate immediately after the race, but both Waller and McDonald were talking down the prospect of the colt heading to Australia's premier weight-for-age contest.

"How does he beat Winx if he's not fully mature? If he's going to be a world champion I'd rather see it in six months time than two weeks time," Waller said.

McDonald was similarly cautious despite the scintillating display."I wouldn’t (go to the Cox Plate), she (Winx) is too good," he said.

Oohood, the lone filly in the field, worked home stylishly for third, ahead of Good 'n' Fast in fourth.

Early leaders Native Soldier and Tavisan knocked up to be beaten 13.95L and 23.95L respectively.